The Fed's hawkish signal sparked gold jitters — but analysts see support for the precious metal in 2025

A South Florida man, Tiron Alexander, 35, was convicted of wire fraud for booking over 120 free flights by falsely posing as a flight attendant from 2018 to 2024, using credentials from multiple airlines. He flew on 34 of these flights without payment, and his sentencing is scheduled for August 25, as the TSA confirmed he did not pose a threat to passengers during his fraudulent activities. Need More Context? 🔎

New data from Strategic Pay reveals that women in New Zealand's private sector boardrooms are earning more than men, with female non-executive chairs making 3.7% more and non-executive directors earning 17.2% higher fees. However, women remain underrepresented, comprising only 21% of non-executive chairs and 36% of non-executive directors, compared to 28% and 39% in the public sector, respectively. Need More Context? 🔎

Mali's military junta, led by Gen Assimi Goïta, has commenced the construction of a gold refinery in collaboration with Russia's Yadran Group, aiming to enhance the nation's economic sovereignty and benefit from its mineral wealth. This project, which will have a majority Malian stake and a 200-tonne capacity, reflects Mali's shift towards Russia while reducing ties with Western nations, as seen in the administration of a Canadian-run gold mine. Need More Context? 🔎

A serious multi-vehicle crash on the M25 in Essex has led to the closure of the anticlockwise carriageway between junctions J29 and J28, resulting in 30-minute delays for drivers. Emergency services, including an air ambulance, are on-site, and diversion routes have been implemented as traffic congestion extends to Romford and Brentwood. Need More Context? 🔎

The B.C. Supreme Court has certified a class-action lawsuit against McKinsey & Company, alleging the consultancy advised opioid manufacturers and contributed to marketing strategies that resulted in the over-prescription of opioids. This legal action highlights the province's efforts to hold the firm accountable for its role in the opioid crisis. Need More Context? 🔎

Over 400 Iranian pilgrims, recently returned from hajj in Saudi Arabia, faced anxiety in Iraq's Ayn Tamr as they sought news from home amid escalating Israeli strikes on Iran, which have resulted in significant casualties and destruction. Many expressed fear for their families and cities, while the Iraqi government plans to facilitate the return of 76,000 pilgrims stranded due to airport closures. Need More Context? 🔎